How Can I Help Someone in Mental Distress?
Approach & Assess Listen Without Judging Give Reassurance Encourage Professional Help Encourage Other Supports
– Invite the person to talk.
– If there is a risk of suicide or harm, reach out to First Responders.
– Help the person speak freely by listening and asking questions without judging or telling the person what to do.
This hopeful message helps to counter any shame associated with mental distress, reluctance to talk about, or reluctance to reach out for help.
Help them to identify appropriate professional supports.
Help the person to find ways that others can support them during this time.
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